MultiCal Instruction Sheet

mmHgA/PSIA Pressure Module

Introduction
MultiCal pressure modules are used to measure pneumatic or hydraulic pressures.
MultiCal modules dont display
pressure, since they only have
an electrical output. Instead, the
modules convert pressure to
millivolts. Modules are used with
devices capable of measuring
DC millivolts, such as a digital
multimeters or oscilloscopes.
MultiCals are calibrated to convert
pressure units (for this model,
millimeters of mercury or PSIA) to 1 millivolt
per pressure unit. Because the mmHgA/PSIA
model measures absolute pressure, output is always positive.
Pressure is measured by connecting an appropriate tting to one of the two 1/8 female NPT
ports (plug any unused port). Any gas or liquid compatible with 316 stainless steel, PTFE
(polytetrauoroethylene) impregnated hard anodized aluminum, and buna-n rubber, can be
applied to the module as the pressure source.
The three-position switch acts as a power switch as well as selecting mmHgA or PSIA
scaling for the output. The OFF position is used to measure the internal battery condition via
an external volt meter.
MultiCal modules perform best when used with high accuracy multimeters. We recommend
meters manufactured by the Fluke Corporation, but MultiCals can be used with any meter
that has 10M or greater input impedance, and (preferably) 4mm banana jacks on 19mm
(3/4) centers.
When used with a high performance multimeter, the pressure adapter becomes more
than just a digital pressure gauge. By using the features built-in to the Fluke 87 for
example, the system becomes a datalogger capable of measuring and recording peak high,
peak low and average pressures.
This manual includes instructions for calibrating the module itself, but we also offer repair,
calibration/certication services. MultiCals are manufactured (and serviced) by a company
that only makes pressure measuring instruments. Its the only thing we do and thats why we
say: Pressure is Our Business!

C RYSTAL
engineering corporation
PN: 1762 Rev E, 2/2009
Page 1 of 8
Operating Instructions
To ensure safe and accurate operation, please be familiar with the following operations and
functions.
WARNING:
Severe injury or damage can occur through improper use of pressure instruments!
Do not exceed recommended pressure limits of tubing and ttings. Be certain all pressure
connections are secured. Never disconnect pressure instrumentation without rst relieving
system pressure.
CAUTION:
Never insert any object (other than a 18 NPT tting) into the inlet ports. The sensor
diaphragm is very thin and can be damaged or destroyed by solid or sharp objects. Clean
the sensor with appropriate solvents, only.
The internal pressure sensor measures the difference between a sealed high vacuum
reference pressure, and the pressure (or vacuum) applied to the pressure port. The pressure
being measured can be either liquid or gaseous, providing it is compatible with the materials
listed in the specication section.
PTFE tape should be used with any ttings installed into either of the 18 female NPT ports.
Two ports are provided so that additional tees should not be required. Plug any unused
ports.
MultiCals have been calibrated for use with meters that have 10M input impedance, as do
most handheld meters, and some benchtop multimeters. If your meter has higher or lower
input impedance, add 0.1% to the specication of the MultiCal, or refer to the Calibration
section of this manual for other methods of eliminating the error introduced by an impedance
mismatch.

Pressure Measurement
Follow this procedure to correctly use the MultiCal pressure module.

1. Plug the MultiCal directly into the voltage input terminals of the multimeter or with the
patch cord set. The patch cord set consists of a 48 cord with double banana plugs
on each end and a double banana jack splice. Plug the splice into the MultiCal and
the patch cord into the splice. Plug the other end of the patch cord into the multimeter.
Polarity is marked on the MultiCal and on the patch cord and splice.

2. Set the multimeter to the millivolt (DC) range.

3. Check the battery condition: With the MultiCal still in the OFF position, the
multimeter must indicate a minimum reading of 100 mV. Readings less than 100 mV
indicate the battery must be replaced. To be sure that your pressure measurements are
accurate, always check the battery condition rst, and replace the battery if necessary.

4. Turn on the MultiCal by sliding the switch to the range you intend to use.

PRESSURE is Our BUSINESS

PN: 1762 Rev E, 2/2009
Page 2 of 8
5. Apply pressure to the MultiCal. If the meter reads overrange, change the multimeter
range to DC volts (instead of mV). Note: The decimal place will be for volts. Multiply the
reading by 1000. For example, 0.760 V would be 760 mmHgA.

Readings may change when the MultiCal is shifted from a vertical to a horizontal
orientation. This is due to the oil lling that transmits the pressure signal from the
stainless steel diaphragm to the silicon sensor. The magnitude of the shift is typically
less than 0.15 mmHgA.

The MultiCal is calibrated in a horizontal orientation. To compensate for position you

can use the method below.

6. To insure best performance the MultiCal should be checked at zero pressure or

compared against a reference barometric standard. This should be done at least once a
month, or more often in critical applications.

To check at zero pressure, use a vacuum pump and a thermocouple type vacuum
gauge. Set the Multical to the mmHgA scale.

Typically, vacuum gauges are calibrated in millitorr. 1 millitorr = 0.001 mmHgA.

Zero the MultiCal when the vacuum achieved is 10 millitorr or less. With a small
screwdriver adjust the small trimming potentiometer on the end of the MultiCal until your
meter reads precisely zero.

Another way to adjust zero is to compare the barometric reading with a barometric
reference standard. If any difference is noticed between the MultiCal and the reference,
the zero trimming potentiometer can be adjusted so the readings match.

Battery Replacement
1. Set the power switch to the OFF position.

2. Disconnect the MultiCal from the multimeter and any pressure connections.

3. Turn the MultiCal so the power switch is facing down. Remove the single screw located
between the banana plugs.

4. Grasp the one case half in each hand. Pull the two halves apart, beginning at the end
with the banana plugs.

5. Remove and replace the battery.

6. Reassemble the MultiCal. To reassemble, mate the two case halves at the end opposite
the banana plugs, then snap the two halves together.

C RYSTAL
engineering corporation
PN: 1762 Rev E, 2/2009
Page 3 of 8
MultiCal Calibration
A calibration cycle of 1 year is recommended to maintain the MultiCal within specications.

Table 1: Recommended Equipment

Instrument Minimum Specication Recommended Model

Pressure Standard 0.025% of Reading DH Instruments PPC2+
0.025% of Reading
Digital Voltmeter Fluke 45
10M input impedance
You do not need to use a reference multimeter, if the MultiCal will be used with only one
multimeter. In those cases, your overall accuracy may be better if it is calibrated as a set with
the matching multimeter.
The recommended Digital Voltmeter listed in Table 1 has 10M input impedance - as
do many handheld multimeters. Your reference multimeter should have the same input
impedance as the multimeter(s) the module will be used with. In some cases this may mean
that the reference multimeter will need to have its input impedance lowered.
For example, a Fluke 8840A is an excellent benchtop meter, but it has an input impedance of
10,000M. If the module will be normally used with a lower impedance meter, like a Fluke
87, which has an input impedance of 10M, simply connect a 10M resistor in parallel with
the input to the 8840A.

Procedure
1. Connect the MultiCal to the pressure calibration system and to the multimeter. Be sure
that the pressure calibration system and the connection to the MultiCal is leak free.
2. Allow the MultiCal to stabilize at room temperature, away from drafts, for at least 30
minutes before proceeding with calibration. Turn on the multimeter and allow it to warm
up per the multimeter operating instruction. Set the multimeter to the appropriate DC volt
or millivolt scale.
3. Verify the condition of the battery and replace the battery if necessary. Follow the Battery
Replacement procedure to disassemble the MultiCal, but do not remove the battery or
reassemble the MultiCal.
4. Set the switch on the MultiCal to the mmHgA position (switch in position closest to the
banana plugs). Allow the MultiCal to warm up for two minutes.
5. Apply full vacuum to the MultiCal. When the vacuum gauge indicates 10 milliTorr adjust
the Fine Zero potentiometer (R1) for a reading of 0.01mV 0.01mV. If the zero adjustment
range of the Fine Zero potentiometer is inadequate, the coarse zero must be readjusted.
When resetting the adjustment range of the Fine Zero potentiometer (R1) should rst
be set to the center of its rotational range. To center the Fine Zero, rotate the Fine
Zero potentiometer fully clockwise until a click is heard. Then rotate the FINE ZERO
potentiometer counter-clockwise 7 turns. Adjust the COARSE ZERO pot until the output
is as close to zero as possible. Trim in the nal reading to 0 mV 0.01 mV with the FINE
ZERO potentiometer.

PRESSURE is Our BUSINESS

PN: 1762 Rev E, 2/2009
Page 4 of 8
6. Check the millimeter of mercury pressure points shown on Table 2. Adjust R12 if
necessary to bring the readings to within the tolerances shown on Table 2.
7. Set the switch on the MultiCal to the PSIA position.
8. Test the MultiCal at the 30 PSIA point. The reading should be within the tolerance shown
in Table 2. If not, adjust R15 until both points are within specication.
9. In the unlikely event that you are unable to adjust the MultiCal so that all of the points
meet the tolerances of Table 2, contact Customer Service for assistance. Do not readjust
linearity. The linearity adjustment is factory set and should never require readjustment,
unless the sensor is replaced.

Figure 1: Potentiometer Locations

LINEARITY
COARSE ZERO

R1 FINE ZERO
R12 mmHgA
R15
-

PSIA

Table 2: Readings in mV @ 23C 5C

True Pressure Acceptable Output (mV)

380 mmHgA 379.50 to 380.50
760 mmHgA 759.19 to 760.80
15 PSIA 14.978 to 15.022
30 PSIA 29.966 to 30.034

Specifications
The following specications apply at 23C, 5C for 1 year after calibration, and when
used with measuring devices having 10M input impedance, or shunted so that their input
impedance is 10M. Also, the module must be "zeroed" prior to taking measurements to
achieve the pressure specications.

C RYSTAL
engineering corporation
PN: 1762 Rev E, 2/2009
Page 5 of 8
Pressure

Range Accuracy
0 to 760mmHgA (0.08% of Reading + 0.2 mmHgA)
0 to 30 PSIA (0.08% of Reading + 0.01 PSIA)
Maximum Working Pressure: 100 PSI
Burst Pressure: 500 PSI
Wetted Materials: 316 Stainless Steel, PTFE impregnated
hard anodized aluminum, and buna-n rubber.
Unless otherwise specied at time of purchase: 1 PSI = 51.7149 mmHg (Mercury at 0C)
Operating Environment

Temperature Range Humidity

-10 to 10C Uncontrolled Humidity
10 to 30C 0 to 95% Relative Humidity
30 to 40C 0 to 75% Relative Humidity
40 to 50C 0 to 45% Relative Humidity
50 to 55C 0 to 35% Relative Humidity

Temperature Derating
Add to Basic Accuracy Specication. C = ambient temperature.

Temperature Range Derating

28 to 55C (0.016%/C) x (C - 28C)
18 to 28C No Derating
0 to 18C (0.048%/C) x (18 - C)
-10 to 0C (0.264%/C) x (9 - C)

General Specications

Weight 164 grams (5.8 oz.) w/battery

Overall length 118mm (45/8)
Battery NEDA#1604, 6F22, 006P
Battery Life 400 Hours typ. w/alkaline battery
Output 1mV/unit into 10M load
Storage -51C to 71C

PRESSURE is Our BUSINESS

PN: 1762 Rev E, 2/2009
Page 6 of 8
European Community Declaration of Conformity

EC Declaration of Conformity

I/We
Crystal Engineering Corporation
of

708 Fiero Lane, Suite 9

San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
USA

declare that
Pressure Module
MultiCal Series (All Versions)

In accordance with the following directives

89/336/EEC The Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive

and its amending directives

has been designed and manufactured to the following specifications

EN 61326-1:1998 Conducted Emissions Class A N/A

EN 61326-1:1998 Radiated Emissions Class A Pass
EN 61000-3-2:1995 Current Harmonic Emissions Class A N/A
EN 61000-3-3:1995 Voltage Variations & Flicker N/A N/A

EN 61000-4-2:1995 Electrostatic Discharge Pass

EN 61000-4-3:2002 Radiated EM Field Pass
EN 61000-4-4:2002 Electrical Fast Transient/Burst N/A
EN 61000-4-5:2001 Surge Immunity N/A
EN 61000-4-6:2001 RF Conducted Disturbances N/A
EN 61000-4-8:2001 Power Magnetic Field N/A
EN 61000-4-11:1994 Voltage Dips and Interruptions N/A
Note: Product is battery operated.

I hereby declare that the equipment named above has been designed to comply with the
relevant sections of the above referenced specifications. The unit complies with all essential
requirements of the Directives

David K. Porter, P.E.

(NAME OF AUTHORIZED PERSON)

Director of Engineering
(TITLE OF AUTHORIZED PERSON)

4 February 2009
(SIGNATURE OF THE AUTHORIZED PERSON) (DATE OF ISSUE)

C RYSTAL
engineering corporation
PN: 1762 Rev E, 2/2009
Page 7 of 8
Warranty
Crystal Engineering Corporation warrants MultiCals to be free from defects in material and
workmanship under normal use and service for one (1) year from date of purchase to the
original purchaser. It does not apply to batteries or when the product has been misused,
altered or damaged by accident or abnormal conditions of operation.
Crystal Engineering will, at our option, repair or replace the defective device free of charge
and the device will be returned, transportation prepaid. However, if we determine the failure
was caused by misuse, alteration, accident or abnormal condition of operation, you will be
billed for the repair.
CRYSTAL ENGINEERING CORPORATION MAKES NO WARRANTY OTHER THAN
THE LIMITED WARRANTY STATED ABOVE. ALL WARRANTIES, INCLUDING IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
ARE LIMITED TO A PERIOD OF ONE (1) YEAR FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE.
CRYSTAL ENGINEERING SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE.
Note (USA only): Some states do not allow limitations of implied warranties or the exclusion
of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply
to you. This warranty gives you specic legal rights and you may have other rights which
vary from state to state.

How to Contact Us:

Phone. . . . . . . . (805) 595-5477

Toll-Free . . . . . (800) 444-1850
Fax . . . . . . . . . . (805) 595-5466
Email . . . . . . . . service@crystalengineering.net
Web . . . . . . . . . www.crystalengineering.net

If calling, have ready the model number, serial number, date of purchase and reason for
return. You will receive instructions for returning the device to Crystal Engineering.

Send your comments to: feedback@crystalengineering.net

2009, Crystal Engineering Corporation

708 Fiero Lane, Suite 9
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-8701

PRESSURE is Our BUSINESS

PN: 1762 Rev E, 2/2009
Page 8 of 8